Aloe vera is a medicinal plant that has been used for centuries for its healing and medicinal properties. Recently, aloe vera has become a popular ingredient in oral hygiene products like toothpaste and mouthwash. But is aloe vera actually effective as a mouthwash? Let’s take a closer look at the evidence.
Potential benefits of aloe vera for oral health
Aloe vera contains active compounds like polysaccharides, anthraquinones, lectins, and salicylic acid that may provide several oral health benefits:
- Antibacterial effects – Aloe vera has antibacterial properties that may help kill bacteria in the mouth and protect against infections.
- Anti-inflammatory effects – Compounds in aloe vera have anti-inflammatory effects which may help reduce gum inflammation.
- Healing and soothing oral tissues – Aloe vera has been shown to accelerate healing, reduce pain, and soothe oral ulcers and sores.
- Removing dead cells and debris – Aloe vera acts as a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and debris buildup on teeth.
- Neutralizing acidity – Aloe vera helps neutralize acidity in the mouth, balancing pH levels.
With all these benefits, it’s easy to see why aloe vera is added to many oral care products. But are these benefits enough to make aloe vera an effective mouthwash?
Research on the effectiveness of aloe vera mouthwash
There have been a handful of studies that have looked at aloe vera’s effects on dental and oral health when used as a mouthwash:
- A 2009 study had subjects with gingivitis use an aloe vera mouthwash twice daily for 3 months. The aloe vera significantly reduced plaque and gingivitis compared to the control mouthwash.
- A 2011 study found similar results, with aloe vera mouthwash reducing plaque and gingivitis more effectively than chlorhexidine mouthwash over 4 days of use.
- A 2014 study had subjects with fixed orthodontic appliances use an aloe vera mouthwash 3 times a day for 1 month. The aloe vera was significantly more effective than the standard mouthwash in reducing plaque around braces.
- Another study from 2015 showed that an aloe vera mouthwash was as effective as chlorhexidine in reducing gingivitis and salivary bacteria counts when used twice daily for 4 weeks.
However, other studies have shown less impressive results:
- One study from 2010 found no significant difference between aloe vera and chlorhexidine mouthwashes in reducing plaque or gingivitis.
- Another study found that a mouthwash with both aloe vera and chlorhexidine was no more effective than chlorhexidine alone in treating gingivitis.
So while some studies show aloe vera mouthwash can reduce plaque and gingivitis, the evidence remains inconsistent and inconclusive. More high-quality clinical trials are still needed.
How aloe vera mouthwash may compare to other mouthwashes
Most over-the-counter mouthwashes contain antibacterial ingredients like chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride, essential oils, hydrogen peroxide, or zinc chloride as their main active ingredients. How might aloe vera mouthwashes compare?
| Mouthwash Type | Main Effects |
|---|---|
| Chlorhexidine | Strong antibacterial effects, but may cause staining |
| Essential oils (menthol, thymol, eucalyptus) | Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects with fresher breath |
| Hydrogen peroxide | Antibacterial effects and whitens teeth |
| Aloe vera | Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, may aid healing |
While aloe vera has shown some promising results, its antibacterial effects may not be as strong as chlorhexidine or essential oils. However, aloe vera does have added anti-inflammatory, healing, and soothing benefits. It also doesn’t have the staining effects of chlorhexidine or the strong taste of essential oils.
Potential downsides and risks of using aloe vera mouthwash
Before using aloe vera mouthwash, there are a few potential downsides to consider:
- Mild taste – Aloe vera has a milder, watered-down taste compared to stronger tasting mouthwashes.
- May need to use more frequently – To get benefits, you may need to use an aloe vera mouthwash more frequently than stronger antibacterial rinses.
- Not safe for consumption – Make sure to use an aloe vera mouthwash that is just for rinsing. Consuming aloe vera juice orally long-term can be unsafe.
- Allergic reactions – Some people may be allergic to aloe vera and experience reactions like skin rashes.
- Blood sugar effects – Drinking aloe vera juice may lower blood sugar. Rinsing with aloe vera likely does not cause this effect.
Overall, aloe vera mouthwash does not have significant safety concerns for short-term use. But be cautious if you have allergies or diabetes.
DIY aloe vera mouthwash recipes
It’s easy to make your own homemade aloe vera mouthwash. Here are a couple simple recipes to try:
Basic Aloe Vera Mouthwash
- 1/2 cup aloe vera gel
- 1/2 cup water
- 2-3 drops peppermint, clove, or cinnamon essential oil (optional)
Mix together the aloe vera gel and water until combined. Add essential oils if you want a stronger flavor. Transfer to a small mouthwash dispenser bottle.
Hydrogen Peroxide Aloe Rinse
- 1/2 cup aloe vera gel
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp hydrogen peroxide
- 5 drops peppermint essential oil
Combine ingredients and mix well. Pour into a mouthwash bottle. The hydrogen peroxide adds antibacterial effects.
Should you use aloe vera mouthwash?
Here are some tips on whether aloe vera mouthwash may be a good option for you:
- Try aloe vera mouthwash if you want a milder tasting rinse or have issues with staining.
- Use aloe vera mouthwash along with brushing and flossing for better oral hygiene.
- Look for quality aloe vera gels and mouthwashes made by reputable brands.
- Aloe vera is likely more effective when used 2-3 times per day.
- If you have severe dental issues like gingivitis, use a stronger antibacterial rinse.
- Consult your dentist if you plan to use aloe vera long-term.
The bottom line
There is some evidence that using aloe vera as a mouthwash may provide benefits for dental and oral health. It may help reduce plaque, gingivitis, and oral bacteria. However, the research is still emerging and somewhat conflicting. Aloe vera mouthwash may be a helpful addition for improving oral hygiene, but likely works best when paired with brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. Check with your dentist before making aloe vera mouthwash a regular part of your oral care routine.